1.
budget SIM card, discount mobile plan
A low-cost mobile phone SIM card or plan offered by MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) as an alternative to the major carriers. A significant part of everyday life in Japan for cost-conscious consumers.
格安SIM refers to mobile phone plans offered by MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) that use the networks of Japan's three major carriers (ドコモ, au, ソフトバンク) at lower prices.
Cultural note
Japan's major carriers historically charged high monthly fees. Starting around 2015, 格安SIM became a mainstream alternative. Popular low-cost brands include 楽天モバイル, UQモバイル, ワイモバイル, IIJmio, and others.
For foreigners in Japan, 格安SIM is often the most accessible option, as some MVNOs have simpler contract requirements than the major carriers. Prepaid SIM cards for short-term visitors are sold at airports and electronics shops.
Common collocations
- 格安SIMに乗り換える: to switch to a budget SIM
- 格安SIMを契約する: to sign up for a budget SIM
- 格安スマホ: a budget smartphone (often bundled)
Pronunciation
SIM is pronounced シム in Japanese, borrowing the English abbreviation. The full term is read as かくやすシム.
Related Words
Related:
格安スマホ (budget smartphone)